HC Deb 08 June 1944 vol 400 c1484
5. Mr. Boothby

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the acute shortage of agricultural labour and, in particular, the scarcity of domestic help which is essential to efficient farming, he will now direct an increasing number of young women to domestic service on the farms.

Mr. Bevin

Farmers' households are included amongst those to which priority in the supply of domestic help has been given as explained in my reply to the hon. Member for East Middlesbrough (Mr. A. Edwards) on 20th April.

Mr. Boothby

Is the Minister aware that, although they may have priority, there is an immense shortage of domestic help on farms to-day, and that, without some more domestic help, the efficiency of our agricultural industry must be impaired?

Mr. Bevin

I am aware of the shortage, and, until the battles are finished on the Continent, I of afraid the shortage will continue.

Mr. Boothby

I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Motion for the Adjournment.